Exmoor: The First International Dark Sky Reserve

Exmoor was designated the first International Dark Sky Reserve in October 2011. Light pollution is at a minimum and even the main street lighting in Combe Martin has been changed from sodium to down-lighting.

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Combe Martin is very close to some of the best spots to enjoy the night skies. An eight minute drive brings you to the coastal high point at Holdstone Down with good free car parks, or a twelve minute drive gets you to Wistlandpound Lake. On a clear night the sky is stunning where many astrological sights can be observed with the naked eye or even better with binoculars or a telescope.

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Large telescopes can be hired from the Exmoor National Park Centre at Lynmouth. 

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There is an Exmoor Dark Skies Festival which takes place usually at the second half of October each year. For more information and the exact dates go to The Exmoor Stargazing website. A wide variety of events take place during the festival across the whole of Greater Exmoor, including walks, talks and family events, perfect for children to enjoy and discover our dark skies.

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Combe Martin has a good selection of accommodation to choose from. When booking a B&B let them know that you may be out late, should arrangements need to be made.

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For more information and ideas on dark skies visit:

https://www.darksky.org/
https://www.darkskydiscovery.org.uk/
https://www.nasa.gov/
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Check the weather before you go at:
https://weather.com/en-GB/weather/today/l/89c644823d3bdaec13f99fb6cad1c98d47a55e9a48a31fd515e6eed1b891bdee